Middlesboro police investigate rum-infused gummies reportedly handed out at trunk-or-treat event

The Middlesboro Police Department is investigating after rum-infused gummy bears were reportedly handed out at a trunk-or-treat event, according to a report published Monday by LEX18. The department said the investigation was prompted by concerns that alcohol-infused candy may have been given to children during the Halloween-themed community gathering.

Trunk-or-treat events are typically organized so families can visit cars decorated for Halloween, where participants hand out candy in parking lots or community spaces. In this case, Middlesboro police said they received information about gummies described as alcohol-infused, and they are trying to determine what exactly was distributed, who provided the items, and how they were made available at the event.

LEX18 reported that Middlesboro police are working to identify the source of the gummies and to confirm the substance in question. Investigators are also attempting to determine whether organizers or volunteers knew the items contained rum, and whether any other children may have received similar candy.

Alcohol-infused products at events where children attend raise public safety concerns, particularly because children could consume substances that are not intended for them. The department’s investigation centers on accountability and on clarifying whether any rules were violated during distribution at the event.

As part of the inquiry, police said they are reviewing information related to the incident and seeking additional details from people who attended the trunk-or-treat or who may have knowledge about where the gummies came from. Police did not, in the LEX18 report, describe any immediate arrests or charges.

The investigation comes during the final stretch of the fall holiday season, when communities across Kentucky hold family events. Officials said such events rely on participants and organizers following appropriate safety practices, and police said they are continuing to look into the circumstances that led to the reported distribution of alcohol-infused candy.

Middlesboro police said their investigation is ongoing, and the department indicated it will continue to gather information and follow leads before reaching conclusions about how the gummies were handled and who was responsible for distributing them. Anyone with information is being urged to contact law enforcement so investigators can corroborate what was handed out at the event.